Southern Black Racers

It is a fine feeling sitting here with the windows flung open as I listen to the multitude of crickets and frogs sing their nightly songs.  The sweet aroma of the Confederate Jasmine wafts in on the soft Bay breeze making all seem right with the world..here in my small part of it anyway.  Life is good here on the Bayou..at least by my standards.  Others may not fully appreciate just what I see in this life but that is their prerogative.  I personally would not trade it for all the riches in the world.  To my way of thinking, I live in a little piece of paradise.  Secluded..yet right in the midst of things.  Quiet..yet, full of sounds of critters.  Serene..yet, bustling with the activity of life.

Today was the first time this spring that I came across two snakes.  One that Mark found near the Frog Pond and the other was one that I discovered near the east gate of the garden.  Both were Southern Black Racers..Mark's about two and a half feet in length and the other probably a good four.  I was elated to find these two predators in my garden areas as they will devour a host of pests from rats to bugs.  I do worry that they might dine upon the baby birds, lizards, frogs and toads but I really cannot be choosy.  Ms. Ez and I will just have to be extra vigilant in guarding the birds' nests!

Southern Black Racers are slender snakes with smooth scales and are probably the snakes most encountered by people.  They are, of course, black but with white markings on their chins.  They have the typical round pupil that distinguishes most non-venomous snakes and are overall a pretty snake. (At least I think so!) Although these snakes are non-venomous, they do not hesitate to bite if cornered. Black Racers will always try to flee but will stand their ground if escape is blocked! Their young are gray with splotches of reddish brown.  The immature snakes turn black once they get about a foot long.  Black Racers are good snakes to have about the place if you have a problem with rodents and bugs.  Southern Black Racers..good snakes..good friends!